Winter Storm Alert: Northern California Braces For Severe Weather

A significant winter storm, described by the NWS as “impressive even by Sierra standards,” is barreling towards the West Coast. Fueled by an atmospheric river, this storm is poised to potentially become the season’s most substantial snow event, unleashing up to 12 feet of snow accompanied by winds exceeding 100 mph at mountain peaks.

The NWS Reno office issued a stark warning in their forecast discussion, stating that snowfall amounts in the Sierra/northeast CA may become irrelevant due to the sheer volume of snow and challenging measurement conditions. Strong winds are expected to create prolonged periods of near-zero visibility, along with blowing and drifting snow capable of burying vehicles and obscuring roads. The forecast advised against any outdoor activity during the storm, cautioning that even walking outside could lead to becoming lost or disoriented.

The Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes forecast predicts the landfall of an atmospheric river over the Pacific Northwest late Tuesday, with the potential for intensified snow and rainfall across northern and central California.

The NWS Winter Storm Watch underscored the severity of the situation, noting that storms of this magnitude are rare and could result in major road closures and prolonged power outages. Residents were urged to prepare by stocking up on food, water, and alternative heat sources for several days. Travel before the storm’s arrival was strongly advised, as conditions may become impassable once the storm hits.

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The storm associated with the atmospheric river will prolong snowfall in California until Sunday.

Starting Tuesday night, Washington and Oregon will experience the onset of snow and rain moving inland, accompanied by a brief surge of warmer air that will maintain snow levels around 2,000 to 3,000 feet. By Wednesday, the storm will stall, resulting in heavy rainfall in lower elevations and substantial snowfall down to pass levels.

With winds gusting up to 40 to 55 mph on Wednesday, mountain passes are expected to face near whiteout conditions. The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning for mountainous areas and foothills above 1,500 feet through Thursday night into Friday morning.

An unsettled weather pattern will persist, keeping the region cool through the weekend. Snow showers in the mountains are anticipated, although accumulation is expected to be minimal. Portland and Seattle will see a mix of wet snow and rain persisting.

If you find yourself lost in the woods this winter, here’s what you need to know to survive:

Northern California will experience increasing winds, rain, and snow late Wednesday into Thursday.

“The time to prepare for this significantly impactful winter storm is NOW,” cautioned the NWS Sacramento office.

By Thursday morning, mountain areas above 5,000 feet could witness snowfall rates ranging from 1 to 3 inches per hour. The NWS predicts wind gusts over 60 mph, leading to white-out and blizzard conditions in the foothills. Ridges may experience gusts reaching up to 125 mph, equivalent to a Category 3 hurricane.

A subsequent surge of cold air will bring another round of heavy snowfall on Friday, with rates potentially reaching 2 to 3+ inches per hour. Snow levels are expected to drop to 1,500 to 3,000 feet by Saturday morning. The possibility of thunderstorms remains on the table through Saturday.

As a cold front passes, snow levels could plummet below 1,000 feet into Sunday in the Sacramento Valley. Mountainous regions above 5,000 feet may accumulate between 5 to 12 feet of snow.

Coastal ranges in the San Francisco Bay Area’s highest elevations could experience a dusting of snow, while lower elevations might receive up to 2 inches of rainfall.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles area should anticipate periods of moderate to locally heavy rain from Friday through Sunday.

Winter Storm Alert: Northern California Braces for Severe Weather

The storm associated with the atmospheric river will prolong snowfall in California until Sunday.

If you find yourself lost in the woods this winter, here’s what you need to know to survive:

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